Why I Returned my Z CAM E2

[@welldone8235]

18 months ago I swapped my Red Epic with E2 - absolutely no regrets, I have now 90% of Red Epic for 10% of a price :)

[@ScottBell]

Glad it's working for you. I unfortunately didn't have the same experience. Thanks for watching.

[@sayyamzahid505]

I live in Karachi Pakistan I like your comments send 4 month ago

[@julianweigand3100]

i did the same haha

[@AdventureWidely]

It's too bad people have thumb-downed this video. You're a professional who knows how to operate a camera, and you're simply relaying your experiences on this product. Bringing issues to light could help not only buyers, but the company as well to learn from design issues and potential quality control issues and make better products going forward.

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for the comment, I definitely appreciate hearing from folks with your perspective. I'm honestly just trying to share what happened to me. Not trying to trash the company, not saying I won't ever try Zcam again. I hope somoene gets some value from it. Thanks for watching.

[@sayyamzahid505]

I live in Karachi Pakistan I like your comments

[@cineffect]

Geez this was a great video, why would anyone thumb this down?

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching

[@EugeneMaynard]

Now this is the type of info I value. Real reviews of how a camera performs day to day in practical production situations is far more important than a list of glossy specs!🙏🏾

[@ScottBell]

Cheers Eugene, thanks for watching!

[@eagleseyemedia]

Join the FB zcam page this guy didn't know what he was doing.

[@ScottBell]

@@eagleseyemedia If you search the facebook group for "vertical line" you'll find many other cases of the same issue I was experiencing without any clear solutions. I'm glad some folks aren't experiencing this, but some people definitely are.

They only seem to be helpful as long as you praise them. I had problems with my E2 and returned it. I shared my thoughts on the internet and the CEO copied my post into the facebook group basically saying that I was an idiot alongside it. When I tried to explain my problems, I got banned. Never buying anything from them ever again.

[@augenblicknet]

Ouch. That sounds like you have a defective unit. I have an E2 too and mine works like a charm and I can not reproduce any of your points. Especially the battery issue you bring up. This works without problems even with the big NP-F 970 batteries. Every time without a hickup. It just needs a little practice. But after a few times you can do it blind. For me the E2 is an absolute workhorse. In fact it is the reason I sold my RED. But hey, it's a free world. Hope your next camera works better for you.

[@ScottBell]

Hey Peter, thanks for watching. Good to hear your camera is working well. I do think mine was just defective, but makes it hard to put trust in the brand for now. I might circle back to Zcam one day.

[@CBRAFILMS]

@@ScottBell S6 or F6 might worth a try in a future :)

[@Infosmercial]

Peter, you sold your RED to get an E2? I would love to see a video on this, but really I’d just like to hear more of your thoughts on why you did it.

[@Studio-Kun]

That sounds really interesting that you sold your red for zcam. Maybe you can do a video about this i like to hear about it!

[@kieranarmstrongproductions4743]

@@计 literally. Thousand dollar monitors and matte boxes

[@AveryCaudill]

Just a heads up for anyone looking at an E2, I also have experienced the power cycle issue but I’ve done some testing and it’s only happened with a specific battery that I believe is lower quality not able to deliver enough amps. So get proper batteries and hopefully that’s the only reason it will power cycle

[@ScottBell]

Good to know. Hopefully that helps some folks. Thanks for watching.

[@carldai4541]

Thank you, Scott, for sharing your experience. I just have my E2 for a little over 2 months. The camera is working fine with most of the scenarios. But I have the same issue when trying to playback the high frame rate footages in camera. Hopefully they will fix this with further firmware updates.

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching and the comment. Glad your E2 is working well. I hope others have better luck than me.

[@Arrogan28]

This is the one issue i have heard, but not with an external monitor, just with the little screen? What monitor are you using to view the footage? Have you tried going on the facebook z-cam page? The z-cam guys read that page and often have helped people out there with issues? This is definitely one worth bringing up as it might help get it looked at?

[@alexciprian]

Thank you for this sharing this experience. As a GH5 user I was thinking of this as a small upgrade but now I know to save my coins and make a bigger leap when I upgrade. Thanks man!

[@ScottBell]

Cheers Alexander, thanks for watching. Of course take my thoughts with a grain of salt as there are plenty of users having good experiences with this camera. They also just released ProRes RAW over HDMI with the Ninja V today so that's pretty cool. That said, I'm going to go for a bigger leap as you suggested with my upgrade as I think it'll pay off in the long run.

[@Yyuiop]

I had substantial problems with my Red Epic W over the years, to the point I just hire Arri’s. Be thankful you didn’t spend £38k!

[@ScottBell]

Definitely thankful of that!

[@RockstarCinema]

I know your a canon guy or EF have you considered Sony like the a7siii or fx3 ? Those 2 really have it all raw output amazing AF SUBURB color S Cinetone

[@MacOlink]

Great video man. I experienced many of these issues with my E2 as well. I sold mine and decided to buy the F6 instead and I can honestly say I havent had any issues thus far. The playback feature still sucks, but thats being fixed in the next firmware. But as far as random reboots, and a weird vertical line in my footage ive had no problems. On my E2 I had some stuck pixels multiple times that I have to fix by over heating the camera and remapping the sensor. So far, no issues with the F6. The audio monitoring is still bad though. I usually plug my headphones into my monitor and it seems to fix that issue for me. I do think that their flagship models are built differently and theyve taken these problems into account. Maybe try an S6!

[@ScottBell]

Hey Mac, thanks for the comment, I have been wondering that about the S6 and F6 since they have a different sensor. I might give one a try. I've been pretty wowed by the recently announced Canon C300mkiii as well so might just save up and go for something that has a bit longer track record. Good to hear the F6 is holding up well for you though! Thanks for watching.

[@nicholasboule5134]

@@ScottBell wow its suck a nice camera, dont fall for the FF hype, get the camera that wows you

[@blackferretvisuals]

Sorry to hear that. I got my zcam e2 last year and I haven't had any issues as of yet, thinking of getting a second one.

[@ScottBell]

Glad to hear the camera is working well for you. Thanks for watching.

[@angastudios3473]

My ZCAM F6 has no issues for me at all. I do use Zoom H6 to record my audio sometimes.

[@ScottBell]

Glad to hear you are having a good experience with the F6. Thanks for watching.

[@aram.v]

@anga do you have any issues on slow motion playback like he did?

[@markjob6354]

*Hi Scott. Thank you for your honesty in this review. I am about to purchase the ZCAM E2C model and use that in 12 bit RAW mode with my Ninja V Monitor/Recorder. I do know for a fact there are several firmware updates that address at least some of your issues with the regular E2 model you mention here. The playback of footage issue has been specifically addressed, and the line issue you have experienced does look like a "Clocking readout" issue with the internal processing engine of the camera. You can see such line artifacts with readout processing issues from the sensor, and at the speed ZCAM is releasing firmware updates to address what they refer to as "stability issues," I'm wondering if you had hung on just a bit longer, then you might have seen a solution to most of the problems you experienced ?*

[@ScottBell]

Hey Mark, thanks for the comment. I hope they've been able to solve some of these issues. For me, the camera was just not stable enough that I could rely on it in a variety of situations. I was always worried something wasn't going to work right. Just doesn't cut it for me. Best of luck with yours, hope it works out!

[@markjob6354]

@@ScottBell UPDATE: I now have the ZCAM E2C in hand and I will be beginning to test this camera thoroughly prior to two major shoots I have coming up this Spring. I do believe the E2C maybe using a slightly different Micro-Four-Thirds sensor than the E2 does (?). I am planning to use my ZCAM rigged up in the smallrig cage with the Atomos Ninja V capturing in ProRes RAW 12 bit 4K DCI straight out of the camera. I will specifically test the four specific issues you mention in your video about why you returned your ZCAM on my E2C to see if I can reproduce them on my camera. I'm hearing only good things from others on the ZCAM E2 Facebook Forum about the E2 model. The E2 is also the oldest and first model to be released in the ZCAM lineup, with the E2C being the next, and then the E2 F6 I think.

[@ScottBell]

@@markjob6354 Nice one. I hope the camera serves you well. I've decided to get the Canon C70 as I think it'll fit my needs better.

[@thefilmfarmersltd3263]

I know that the audio problem is a bug from firmware 0.95. Currently, in order to fix you have to go into the input gain and change the gain up then back down. His will be removed. The current bug resets the audio gain to zero each time you turn it on. Will be resolved in 0.96 A valid point about the HDMI but you can resolve by getting a right angled one. Sorry to hear you were having trouble with resets though. I haven't come across this personally but appreciate this wouldn't be ideal! I haven't personally had the line issue you mentioned but I do remember this being discussed by other users in earlier firmware. Do you know what firmware you were on?

[@ScottBell]

Hey, thanks for watching Tom. I was on the latest firmware at the time, which I think was 0.94 (whichever included the low jello mode). The HDMI is surely resolvable with the right type of cable but even with the right-angle cable I owned it was catching the battery. It's a small oversight but something I hope they address in future designs - it really only needs a few additional millimetres of clearance to be a non-issue. I'm glad others have had good luck with this camera, for me it felt a little too much like a work in progress.

[@dorkin_aint_easy]

Interesting hearing your feedback. I've been seriously considering this camera and would be using it for the same exact applications (Paid MTB/Action sports gigs). Kind of makes me question my thought process. Having a camera hick up or blow a shot when someone is riding a really spicy line is a serious no go. I may just wait to see where the Canon R5 and R6 land and make a decision then. Thanks for your honest feedback.

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching Tyler. You might consider the S6 or even just give an E2 a try inside the home only (so you can return) and see if you can reproduce these issues. A lot of folks are reporting having no issues with the vertical line or the resets, so who knows. I think I might just save up for the Canon C300mkiii at this point. It's a big investment but have little doubt I'll be very happy with the results.

[@henryjackson2271]

Good to know. One of my biggest things with any camera is that it just works in the field without any weird fuss and that's super important. The Eos R5 and C300 mark III look interesting and the auto-focus could possibly be helpful in certain situations for a one man crew scenario. I had my eye on the S1h and even with the newly announced raw capability the R5 definitely caught my attention. Thanks for the update and good luck on finding a camera that suits your needs!

[@ScottBell]

Cheers Henry, shortly after posting this video I saw the Canon C300mkiii announcement, and I think I'm sold. That's what I'm going to start saving up for. Definitely a larger investment than the Z Cam, but reliability is king as you said. Thanks for watching.

@@ScottBell Maybe you could contact Peter Mckinnon and/or Matti Haapoja since both have experience with the Canon C300 (and all things Canon for that matter). They seem open to help other KZbinrs / filmmakers.

[@sayyamzahid505]

Chris Kyle died in the battle rip

[@AveryCaudill]

I have an e2 and it has a couple little things here and there but no playback issue except for a little lag, though I have experienced a couple resets:/

[@ScottBell]

Glad it's mostly working for you. Thanks for watching.

[@SilentStudioExplores]

i have the E2C and it wont turn on now. just shut off. so i may do a review myself soon. not even a year old. was just sitting on the tripod when it shut off.

[@ScottBell]

That sucks! They definitely seem to have some quality control issues. Have you reached out to Zcam?

[@SilentStudioExplores]

@@ScottBell in that process now. Hope its just a bug. 🤞

[@billzidis2656]

I had the Red Gemini 5K which cost 20K . The camera will shutdown and it won't turn on for either 1 min or 30 mins... I returned it and i got the Zcam F6 , Never had a single issue. For the battery plate i just got a Zitay npf which sits exactly on the battery insert and also screw in with 4 screws,metallic and perfect. I guess your mileage may very

[@ScottBell]

Glad it's worked for you.

[@dpjohnjones432]

I too was having issues with my e2 S6. I did not have the reboot loop issue but I did experience some of the other issues. The icing on the cake was when my hdmi feed started to drop intermittently during recording. It would happen a little bit while just monitoring but when I pressed record sometimes the HDMI feed would drop almost completely and I would have to shoot blind for up to 5 seconds at a time. And at other times it would just flicker. I loved this camera and I know not everyone is having issues but I did. I'm really thingking of going back to the A7 SIII. Its very disapointing becuase I think the image of this camera is more natural and "movie" like than that on the A7 sIII.

[@ScottBell]

Sorry to hear you had issues as well. I too really wanted the Zcam to be the solution for me. Loved the form factor and the image. Hopefully they improve their quality control more as they have gained a stronger share of the market and we'll see new cameras down the line.

[@nrdflx]

Hey Scott, just wondering if you've looked into the new Z-cam E2-M4 as an alternative, and if so what are your thoughts? Cheers /Fred

[@ScottBell]

Howdy, thanks for watching. I've looked at it a bit but I'm afraid of the sensor issue still existing (vertical line) since I think it's the same sensor. I think I'll let Zcam mature as a company a bit more before I try one again but will be keen to hear how the M4 works for folks.

[@LucasHJX]

For 4K 120fps pixel to pixel readout, is the z cam e2 the only camera can do it? I can’t think another one. For apsc and full frame sensor they usually have more than 4K so 120fps is achieved by pixel binning or lineskipping which is not Good. Oversampling from 6k/8k to 4K 120fps requires the sensor can do full sensor 120fps readout which is too expensive.

[@ScottBell]

I'm not really sure about that level of technicality in regards to how the sensor works.

[@sampriest12]

Why not the Bgh1? I’m really wondering why KZbin is all zcamed out? I’m holding a s6 and I’m sending it back in less than 3 days. It’s a finicky camera. Where’s the Bgh1 love... I don’t think Panasonic paid out to the powers. I wish you luck brother. It’s rough out there... 6kpro had to go back because it would cut off and it was too large of a camera... beautiful footage and year beyond competition but has issue as well. Gh5 is still looking good. Please let us know when you find something... if you haven’t already... Fx3? 😏

[@ScottBell]

Hey Samein, thanks for watching. I haven't looked into the Bgh1 much but decided to go with a Canon C70. Overall, I'm happy with it. Have some issues that I'm still working through and learning to shoot in clog2. I'll be surely sharing more videos about it as I use it more. For now, though, the GH5 is still a solid camera.

[@CoreyWarren]

Hey Scott, thanks for the video. I'm curious now in September what you've settled on. Maybe a Komodo or R5 or A7siii? I do a lot of similar work to you and looking for similar features.

[@ScottBell]

Hey Corey, I'm still pretty torn so not making any decisions soon. A7siii is closest to what I want but not really wanting to invest in Sony glass when I'm already invested in Canon. Was contemplating the C300mkiii but can't really swing it financially right now, plus it's pretty big. I saw a rumor of another smaller cinema camera that Canon will announce later this month. Curious what that will hold. For now I'm just sticking with the GH5.

[@CoreyWarren]

@@ScottBell Right on, well good luck man! Keep up the good work.

[@ScottBell]

Cheers, thanks man.

[@NickZukin]

If you're using Canon's glass, what about the Blackmagic Pocket 6k? It has an EF mount. It's only $2k US, too. I watched a BMPCC vs Z Cam review from a cinematographer and he had a similar problem with the sound, but it came through on the recording as well. However, he was using the 3.5mm jack. Not sure which you were using. I was considering Z Cam as an option, but there are enough reviews where people had ones with serious issues, I am probably going to pass on it and go with something else.

[@ScottBell]

@@NickZukin I'm looking for something with 4k120fps but the BM is good in a lot of other ways for sure.

[@MikeErickson]

Such a bummer - I really wanted this camera to be great. Great information to put out there though! Glad to have you back!

[@ScottBell]

Yeah man, it was a bummer. I still have hope that Zcam will become a reliable camera manufacturer, just might not quite be there yet. Good to be back, going to try and keep the momentum going!

[@JohnFultonCGL]

Mike I feel I have to tell you that I live near to Scott and also own the e2 and have had zero issues with mine. I really just believe Scott got a lemon. I know 4 other zcam owners near me who also have clean footage and no issues.

[@EposVox]

It's strange how I keep seeing more of these "why I returned" videos than positive ones about the cameras :/

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. Yeah it is unfortunate that folks are having bad luck with this camera. There seem to be good and bad stories for sure. I will wait for something with the features I need that's a bit more tried and true.

[@Arrogan28]

I have only seen two people say they returned the z-cam? I would be interesting to see how many others you are talking about? I know people using this camera on a daily bases on a project right now and absolutely loving it, completely reliable, not 1 issue, and they are ex RED users who are completely converted to z-cam now. So i have never seen the problems he is talking about here. It is valuable to hear, but I would not assume that suddenly this is the standard response. I would take a look at the z-cam user group on facebook. Or listen to other reviews from people currently using this camera reliable constantly in the case of the e2 for over a year now, and the new models are being used in professional jobs with none of the issues he is mentioning? Maybe it was the monitor he had? Or something, but I would be interested to see one other review with these same issues on youtube for instance...? Again, if there are others with the same I would love to hear about it?

[@EposVox]

The Facebook group is a miserable place full of zealots that have zero interest in hearing real criticism and I'd never recommend it as a place to get a realistic look at the cameras

[@Rebaz]

@@EposVox Before i say the facebook group is toxic, its a very reliable group. The people who run the Zcam are so in touch with their fanbase that they basically do everything they ask. they truely listen to their users. then comes the part that the users are insanely toxic, i have to agree. but thats why you have the mute/block button on it. it cleans the way for the serious responses. and for the camera, maybe hire it for a day or two. amazing thing.

[@KristopherSatchell]

Haha, the reason is the majority who are keeping theirs are not making KZbin videos on why they're keeping it.

[@lanemccall6787]

My Blackmagic pocket 4k had the same line issue when I got it. Same exact place. A firmware update helped it.... hasn't been an issue since.

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. I've heard that issue happens with the Pocket and GH5s since they all share the same sensor. Some folks are definitely not having this issue on the Zcam, so mine may have been a bad unit.

[@MarkMatthewsMTB]

Bummer it didn't workout, I was stoked for that camera too!

[@ScottBell]

Yeah man, too good to be true I guess. Keep rocking the GH5 for now.

[@CBRAFILMS]

@@ScottBell I have a zcam for a year and e2c for 8 months without ANY of your problems. Zcam e2 is amazing and maybe you had a bad unit??

[@JMKPictures]

I've been a z cam e2 user for almost 2 years after using gh5's. there's definitely a learning curve. It's amazing, but not turnkey, so at first..or for a year you might not see it's full potential in your own footage. also it does 160fps 4k. and prores raw and zraw. 8, 10, and 12 bit formats.

[@ScottBell]

Glad you've had a good experience with it. I'm happy I don't own one with all the new cameras coming out from established brands. The C70 is looking pretty appealing to me at the moment.

[@zacharykepler3567]

The C70 is looking like the sweet spot if you don’t need Raw. I’d be amped to see an in depth C70 vs Komodo vs Ursa G2 comparison

[@ScottBell]

@@zacharykepler3567 Same!

[@givebackdocumentaryproduct5981]

I was thinking of getting either the GH5S or the Zcam E2 to be a match with my GH5s. I think even if you had a defective unit . I think I will go for the GH5s as panasonic quality control and overall reliability is top notch and I know I can trust it. Thanks for the video.. have you thought of the GH5S

[@ScottBell]

Cheers, glad my video helped you make a decision. This is how I'm feeling now too. Equipment with a track record that shows reliability can't be understated. Good luck!

[@FloridaLife]

Sounds like you got a defective unit. Aside from the playback issue (which I don't use) I've had none of the other problems you've experienced. Probably worth giving the Zcam another go down the road, it's an amazing camera and a great value when it works as it supposed to. Then again the specs on the new Canon are awfully intriguing, depending on the price and release date. Cheers!

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. Yeah, good chance my unit was bad. I hope zcam increases their quality control. Spending $3k on a camera should come with some level of assurance of quality. I might give zcam a try again down the road, possibly the s6 since they sound like they have less issues.

[@whiteranger3863]

This definitely sounds like a defective unit. I follow a bunch of Z users who've used these for months on end with no issues. That might be an important disclaimer if you haven't tried another unit. But great to have these points to look for when buying this camera, thanks!

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. I made a disclaimer right at the beginning that it might have been a defective unit. I still think it's important to know that there are some reliability issues.

[@alessandrovalentino3406]

The only option for something more professional that does high frame rates would be the Canon c300 mk iii. It's 11k but it's the best bang for your buck camera with the specs you are looking for.

[@ScottBell]

Yup, that's what I have my sights set on now. Looks like a pretty amazing camera, but definitely pricey.

[@RockstarCinema]

A most ppl are recording externally and just using this for scratch audio B playback works fine for me but the menu is not my favorite C never had my camera reset on me D hard to notice the line your speaking about. I feel like a cinema camera doesn’t fit your work flow. Really depends on the work you do. Love your channel and your work is amazing !

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. Glad you have had better luck with your Zcam. I wanted the camera to work for me so badly but it just wasn't reliable or user friendly enough for my needs. I ended up picking up a Canon C70 and overall it's been great.

[@RockstarCinema]

@@ScottBell yea I think you found what word best for you.

[@harunucar9801]

What are the temperature values of Z cam? Is there a problem with the cooling?

[@ScottBell]

I don't recall but these issues happened at very normal environmental conditions and soon after turning the camera on.

[@CaptainSlow07]

Not sure about other issues. But most of the reports are cmos noise issue, I just saw another Chinese post about their new e2m4, most of e2 s are fine, just some of the e2 installed faulty cmos from Sony. Maybe that’s the problem of being a small company. Hope they could solve the problem and give me more confidence to buy it.

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, I hope they figure it out. They seem to be on a good trajectory so I imagine they'll get there. Thanks for watching!

[@phillipchristopher5736]

I was really torn by the zcam s6 and the Eva 1, ended up getting the zcam for form factor, 12bit raw, and the interchangeable mounts, should be hear next week and I’m hoping it’s everything I hope for if not, then Eva1 it is

[@ScottBell]

I think you will have better luck with the S6. I haven't read of any complaints from folks with that camera. It kind of feels like the E2 was used to work out the bugs and the Flagship line is the real cameras the company wanted to make. I hope it works for ya!

[@isaacbedford3644]

None of the Zcam cameras can do 12-bit, only 10-bit

[@joshkiddfilms1295]

@@isaacbedford3644 this isn't true. zraw is 12-bit

[@officialfadi]

What cameras on its budget would you recommend in its place?

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. I ended up going with the Canon C70. But honestly the Panasonic GH5 is still really great for a budget camera.

[@officialfadi]

@@ScottBell thanks!

[@RiseHigh]

Hey Scott, nice to hear your thoughts and go in depth with your issues. As we talked the other day, if the gear can not be trusted then it's just a big NO for all the paid works. You definitly did the right thing. Take care =)

[@ScottBell]

Cheers Lucas, thanks for watching. Yeah it comes down to that. You need to be able to trust your gear. I hope other people have better luck with their Zcams.

[@MelnardEdaCinematography123]

I do. Got my zcam for a year now and never had any kind of issue. Did a lot of works with it. Maybe yours was a bad unit.

[@JohnJonesRocketCity]

Def sounds like you received a lemon. I had a very similar experience with the bmpcc4k and I returned it. I’m positive at this point that it was a dud. I plan on maybe buying another one or a 6k since others are not having this experience. I’m also considering the zcams too. Thanks for the feedback.

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, very well could have been a bad one. At this point I think I'm going sony a7siii or canon c70. Good luck!

[@fanjan7527]

Have you mentioned the issues with the manufacturer? I hear they are quite responsive on their own Facebook group. Only reason I ask is that I fear the unit and the issues might not be communicated with the manufacturer and the problem cause not found...for future improvements.

[@ScottBell]

I posted to the Facebook group and emailed the CEO (who is active on the facebook group) and received zero response from Zcam. It was a bit frustrating. As many folks are saying, I probably had a defective unit, but I think that's what worries me about Zcam currently. The quality control and testing isn't as thorough as other more established camera companies. I've never experienced a bad unit like this with any other camera I've purchased.

[@ozzythemighty2767]

Thq so much for your review. For me that is looking for a good entry cinema camera .. ur review Helps :D .. I think overall i'll be going with the SonyA7iii since there already lowering there price by 200$ in anticipation of there new release. I know it's a hybrid. But i need something that's has great AF, low light performance, hyper & time laps & just an over all great run & gun cinema camera for 1 man crew. I'm expecting the A7iii to go as low as 500$ with in the next 2 month after the announcement.

[@ScottBell]

Glad you found the video helpful. Good luck in whatever kit you decide to go with!

[@heartshapedfilms]

In the process of getting my own E2 M4 interesting to hear these issues, for me the restarting would of been a nail in the coffin. Do wonder if you where using intel codecs or external recorder like a ninja?

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. I was recording internal to an angelbird ssd. Hope you have a good experience with the M4.

[@heartshapedfilms]

@@ScottBell hmm that's interesting. I am feeling this may be isolated due to the fact everyone having such good things to say about these cameras

[@AlecEagon]

Is anybody else having issues with the SLR Magic Lenses (or any others?) moving around in the E2M4 mount? Even though they stay locked, all of mine shift slightly and throw the image when I am moving the aperture ring. Thanks!

[@osterling]

Which model did you have? 4k or 6k... Full frame or Super 35? Thanks.

[@ScottBell]

I had the Zcam E2.

[@Fuzzmistro]

SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAD/HAVE A BAD UNIT. I USE AN E2 AND I USE IT OFTEN WITH NO ISSUES. THE AUDIO/PRE-AMPS AREN'T AS GOOD AS MY GH5 BUT I TOYED WITH THE SETTINGS TO GET ME A BETTER SOUND. THE FORM FACTOR AND VIDEO QUALITY PLUS THE FRAME RATE IS WHAT HAS ME HOOKED.

[@ScottBell]

Yeah it is definitely possible it was defective. Glad your unit is working. It definitely has a nice form factor. I've got my eyes set on the C300 mkiii now :)

[@gcprost]

Thanks for doing this. I too use GH5's but I do admit that I was drawn to the E2. I suspect that this camera needs a bit of time to work out the kinks.

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, it's still early days in this line from Zcam so I'm sure things can only go up from here. Thanks for watching.

[@TheNefastor]

Random resets ??? Is it possible your unit was defective ? You'd think if that was the norm nobody would use those cameras, right ?

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, hard to say what was going on. Regardless, wasn't for me, seemed too unreliable. I'm sure others have had better experiences.

[@billzidis2656]

I just pre-order the E2 F6...Let's hope i won't have the same issues !

[@ScottBell]

Yeah I hope you have better luck. I've heard these issues are more common with the E2 than the flagship models.

[@billzidis2656]

@@ScottBell Better be because the F6 in UK is way over £5000+ !

[@ieredin]

@@billzidis2656 i have no problem with F6. I had only problem with Tilta cage (for F6), because it didt fit. Smallrig works well with F6. @Skott Bell iam really sorry to hear about your bad experience with zcam

[@AlpsLifee]

I think with these new brands they aren’t as critical with their Q&A, I had some issues with my first Fuji xt3 second one has been fine but I’m looking at canon now and that ever dropping price on the C200

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, just not sure they have the track record to promise something that is built like a tank. I'm getting stoked for the Canon C300mkiii but sooo much more expensive.

[@AlpsLifee]

Scott Bell I’m gonna rent the C500mkii for one of my films, looks so good, but both are over 10k so over my budget so rental is the only option for me right now

[@nightdonutstudio]

Personally I would not trust those new Chinese company especially their first major release. Need a lot of firmware update. And better wait for their upcoming camera where their QC will improve a lot.

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, that's how I'm feeling. Too good to be true. I'm going to go for Canon I think. Thanks for watching.

[@BenSchubert]

Get the bmpcc6k or that G2. Otherwise wait for the Canon R5

[@ScottBell]

I'm getting pretty excited about the Canon C300 mkiii that was just announced!

[@BenSchubert]

@@ScottBell Yah, I'm really looking at the leasing options for that one

[@extremekidproductions7859]

Did you contact the engineers through the facebook group about any of the issues?

[@ScottBell]

I emailed Kinson (CEO) directly regarding the vertical line in the footage issue and go no reply. Went back and forth with the group regarding the audio issue, just decided to settle on accepting it. In the end, with COVID-19 coming I didn't want to get stuck with a camera that didn't work, so took advantage of B&H's 30 day return policy.

[@extremekidproductions7859]

@@ScottBell cool, the Facebook group seems pretty active. Surprised you didn't hear back.

[@eagleseyemedia]

@@ScottBell He always reply's plus he's the CEO the mans always busy. Ive had mine since it came out no issues at all.

[@eagleseyemedia]

@@extremekidproductions7859 exactly all day too he was probably impatient.

[@TheMercer007]

Was it the Zcam E2 M4 that you had or jus the E2?

[@ScottBell]

Hey Paul, it was an E2.

[@TheMercer007]

@@ScottBell Thanks for the quick reply. I have an E2, so far has been nice. I might switch to the E2 M4 or the S6. Did you end up trying another Zcam.

[@ScottBell]

@@TheMercer007 Nice. I ended up getting a Canon C70 and love it. It suits me better as I often need a high quality audio interface which the C70 has built into the camera.

[@przybylskipawel]

I can't see any line! Is it visible after converting to YT? It is hard to believe it is not defective unit...

[@ScottBell]

It's harder to see in the YT compression but if you go to 5:00 it's pretty visible in the middle of the wallet I'm holding up. Others definitely have shared this issue on the facebook group, so it's more than my unit.

[@fodsonmedia]

Such a shame man, I really hope you find something awesome before too long, hey! I'm about to go out shooting some mtb footage over the weekend together with my business partner. We have a GH5, a G9 and a BMPCC4K between us, plus a drone, so we'll see how we go :) Stay safe bud, can't wait for your next video. Cheers /Fred

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, it was disappointing. I'm pretty excited about the Canon C300mkiii now so might start saving up for that. Glad you are finding a way to get out and shoot. Look forward to seeing what you create! Thanks for watching.

[@AveryCaudill]

how do you like the gh5/ g9 vs the Blackmagic?

[@ScottBell]

@@AveryCaudill I haven't used the G9 but GH5 and Blackmagic have different roles in a production I feel like. The GH5 is great for a low profile rig that is very versatile and doesn't need a lot of extra stuff to make it work well. The BM, on the other hand, requires more rigging to really use effectively. I think it has a slightly nicer image overall and definitely offers more codecs but both are very capable cameras.

[@AveryCaudill]

Scott Bell thanks:)

[@BillRey]

Almost all of those cons are fixed if you record externally to the Ninja

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. The Ninja's fan was too loud for the work I do. Always picked up a low whir with my microphone.

[@paulconway1176]

Subscribed not for this video but for the quality of your video .... gotta learn how you do those tones ... Maybe get the Cannon R5? - "Full sensor width 8K internal RAW recording at up to 29.97fps and 4K at up to 119.88fps* in either 4:2:2 10bit Canon Log or 4:2:2 10bit HDR PQ" *External recording is available up to 4K 59.94 fps only

[@ScottBell]

Cheers, thanks for the sub. Been meaning to do a color grading vid. Was looking at the R5 but think I will go all out and save for the canon c300mkiii. What a beast!

[@gaurav9806]

Share the video link to their FB page, they are hungry for reviews and they release frequent update and bug fixes... BTW, I am wondering to get it from B&H....

[@ScottBell]

I'm hesitant to post there as to get a pile of angry comments. Feel free to share it there if you think they'd appreciate the perspective.

[@gaurav9806]

@@ScottBell Email the CEO (kinson loo) personally, I am very Shure he will get to you. I like the teamwork of the company, they know the value of cons of their product and do their best to solve it unlike other big companies which feel like they have no after sales support, and Z cam is new to this world so it will take time, but still it's very very budget friendly and popular camera.

[@ScottBell]

I emailed him directly and tagged him on my posts on the Facebook group and received zero response. I saw how active he was on other posts so don't understand why he wouldn't back to me.

[@gaurav9806]

@@ScottBell I have emailed your video and he said his team is working on the issues and will release the update about that. He also said the Line in the video and the noise problem very rare

[@zacharykepler3567]

Is this video about the Z Cam E2-F6??

[@ScottBell]

No, it's about the base E2.

[@zacharykepler3567]

@@ScottBell Ah gotcha. Do you think these same issues will be found in the S6 or F6? These cams look so appealing at this price point, but I wouldn’t want to sacrifice reliability

[@ScottBell]

@@zacharykepler3567 There are plenty of ppl that aren't experiencing the same things even with the E2 so I'm sure the S6/F6 will be different as well. I'd suggest renting a Zcam if you can before committing to buying one. They operate quite a bit differently than most more established camera brands.

[@ayo9604]

Mine keeps shutting down like you say, and its SO ANNOYING! Wtf, never had this happen even with a normal pocket camera, and it totally fucks up the fluency in the work. Unreliable, frustrating and I really wouldn't trust this camera. :(

[@ScottBell]

Sorry to hear you are having issues as well. It just didn't feel reliable enough for me so I went with a more well known brand.

[@lovefirst6157]

Great to see you back. If you just wanted a cinema camera than I don't know one that does 4k 120p but the new canon r5 does 4k 120p

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for dropping a comment. I have to look into the r5, definitely curious about it. Also saw the Canon C300mkiii just got announced - appealing!

[@lovefirst6157]

@@ScottBell BLACKMAGIC URSA G2 also does 4k 120p

[@gaurav9806]

@@lovefirst6157 nice joke

[@stussykim]

I have a E2 and i spent 8mins of listening to stuff didnt happen to mine...strange

[@ScottBell]

Glad you have had better luck with yours.

[@anime2121]

You can mount Ursa 4.6k G2 on Crane 3S. Check it out 🙂👍

[@ScottBell]

Definitely considered the URSA G2, it's just so big! I think I'm going to save for the Canon C300mkiii

[@oelhahn100]

Many thanks for your detailed report! It's a pity, because I like this form factor of the cam very much but perhaps you screened me wasting money.

[@ScottBell]

Thank you for watching. Definitely a bummer, there are folks seeing this video who have had none of these problems so you might try zcam and just keep it safe while you test so you can return it if you have issues.

[@FamilyofTech]

Have Z cam ever contacted you for this issue?

[@ScottBell]

They did not respond to my emails or posts on the facebook group.

They only seem to be helpful as long as you praise them. I had problems with my E2 and returned it. I shared my thoughts on the internet and the CEO copied my post into the facebook group basically saying that I was an idiot. When I tried to explain my problems, I got banned. Never buying anything from them ever again.

[@FamilyofTech]

Martin Janeš that’s good to know! I was seriously considering buying one of those for me but now I can’t justify that purchase with those types of reviews

[@ScottBell]

@ Thanks for watching and the comment Martin. I was starting to feel like the only one having this kind of experience with the company. I hope they will improve their customer service over time. I appreciate you sharing your experience on here.

[@colinthecameraguy]

Was yours the Zcam E2 M4?

[@ScottBell]

No, I had the Zcam E2

[@cvaldeavellano5634]

Por el precio de la zcam estos no son problemas. Además tiene muy buen soporte.

[@RedEyrisFilms]

Thanks for tell the truth..I'm think about the e2s6 but blackmagic 6k just dropped $500 and they have their own monitor lineup now.

[@ScottBell]

Good luck with what you decide. I think I'm going to save up for the canon c300mkiii.

[@RedEyrisFilms]

@@ScottBell that's a great camera as well

[@eagleseyemedia]

Oh nah man your camera was messed up you should've got a new one then made this video. All that stuff your talking about could've been fixed you just didn't know what you were doing. I shot 3 short films and over 100 music videos with it without a touch screen i do everything manually.

[@ScottBell]

As I said in the video - the camera might have been defective. I didn't want to deal with the back and forth of a return during the start of COVID-19. I didn't say don't buy a Z CAM E2, I'm just sharing the experience I had with the camera. All of the issues I talk about (other than the reset loop) have been reported by other users in the Z CAM facebook group, so this isn't an isolated case. I know how to operate a camera, The E2 just seems a bit too unstable for my taste.

[@pyalot]

Use a dedicated audio recorder.

[@ScottBell]

Pretty annoying for run and gun work.

[@pyalot]

Other than having to press 2 record buttons I dont see the issue. And there are huge upsides, like 32 bit float recording (never clip again) and low noise signal paths, plus devices like the zoom F2 do that in a tiny package you can stick anywhere...

[@ScottBell]

@@pyalot If it works for you, that's great. For me the camera doesn't offer the features or reliability I require. Thanks for watching.

[@pyalot]

@@ScottBell I dont have the E2, but I was considering it. At the moment I am more leaning towards the bmpcc 6k. I know about its flaws, bad battery life (stick a v-slot battery underside), shitty screen (get a monitor), awkward formfactor (put it in a cage), bad low light performance quite limited slowmo capabilities (not really issues for me). But what is selling me on it is the fantastic color rendition, good resolution and internal blackmagic raw recording. I love working with Davinci Resolve, and the braw workflow inside it is soo good, everything is snappy and just works. I thought about the ursa 12k, but other than price, I dont like the formfactor. The bmpcc 6k would be a better camera if blackmagic just ditched the screen, battery and card reader andstuck the sensor into a minimum sized cube 😂😂😂.

[@ScottBell]

@@pyalot Yeah the form factor of the BM pockets is pretty silly but the image is great, especially if you mostly just need 24fps. I was thinking about getting the G2 but that thing is a beast and definitely not something you can mount on a smaller gimbal. I'm looking at the Canon C70 now.

[@nicholastoo858]

The A7SIII is maybe what you're looking for.

[@ScottBell]

I haven't looked at the specs yet. Looking at the c300mkiii

[@SolisCreative]

Did anyone test the unit?

[@ScottBell]

I don't know. I returned it to B&H. I did not want to get stuck with a camera that was faulty so didn't send back to Zcam. I'm sure some of this stuff could be unit faults but I've heard from other users with the exact same experience on some of these issues.

[@Arrogan28]

@@ScottBell Scott it's weird. I frequent the z-cam facebook page, and almost all the issues you brought up I don't see people talking about there. The z-cam guys monitor that page and are responding to people with any issues, and not any of really bad stuff you had experience are common, actually in the 3 months I have been on that group, with 20 or more posts a day nothing like what you experienced. Make me wonder though. I will post your review there and see what the response it. As if there are people struggling but being silent about it it might help them talk about it. Or at least maybe the z-cam guys will reach out to you, couldn't hurt, at worst they do nothing, at best never know.

[@angrydrones3437]

Super

[@ScottBell]

Cheers, thanks for watching.

[@TechTVusa]

12 bit VS 10 VS 8 bit means nothing. 18 Megapixels VS 48 Megapixels means nothing. Full frame Vs APS-C means nothing. In the end the sensor is the most important.

[@ScottBell]

Definitely true, thanks for watching.

[@TechTVusa]

@@ScottBell I just bought an A7 III. I did an unboxing video already. I will also be doing a review very soon that will be a tad bit different than other A7 III reviews.

[@PS-ys9yg]

no camera is perfect, at this price point you cant say its expensive one what other cameras you have for that money? bmpcc maybe, and have a los of problems too. for other hand you can go for a sony A7SIII, great camera but for me the image its so videoish

[@ScottBell]

Definitely no camera is perfect. I've decided to stay with my GH5 at this point as it's stable, reliable, and still delivers a great image in most cases.

[@PS-ys9yg]

@@ScottBell yeah, i was loking to boy one, and i find zcam a pretty good option, but i understand if dont work for you. i have the same problem because i want a camer for film fiction and products, and the more reliable cameras at this level are mirrorless ones, but in other hands dont look so cinematics like this or the bmpcc.

[@MiguelSchmitt]

Yeah you got a bad copy I think this is the answer

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, maybe so. I've had pretty much zero regrets with the Canon C70 that I went with instead. Thanks for watching.

[@johnkevin7992]

That thumbnail... Anyone else see something off? 😂

[@ScottBell]

???

[@Peterwfowler]

This coming from a guy who’s profile pic is of himself with no shirt on 😂

[@DreamingOfReality]

c300mk iii but its going to cost you.. lol

[@ScottBell]

Yup, camera looks dope but pricey. I think it will be worth it for the reliability of a long running brand.

[@WINTERMUTE_AI]

Get the new ZCAM E2-M4

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. I think for now I'm going to steer clear of zcam.

[@JFVisuals]

chinese made camera, they cut all kinds of corners to get the cost down, same thing with DJI and Zihyun

[@ScottBell]

I have hope for them to grow as a company and have a bit more quality control. For now I'll be looking at more established brands.

[@TexpatOTG]

Made in China never gives me a feeling of confidence.

[@RedEyrisFilms]

i think you got a bad unit

[@ScottBell]

Yeah possibly. Thanks for checkin out the vid.

[@RedEyrisFilms]

@@ScottBell no problem I always check out all videos before I jump into something I purchased the 6k version from your video cause I needed to here a truthful video your was the only on online. I always tell people if you dont need to upgrade then dont I've been shooting on the nikond800 and I have videos the look better then people with newer and more expensive cameras. It's the person behind it... keep doing what you do and always be truthful. Thanks again.

[@ScottBell]

Right on! Thanks!

[@DoronBond]

Playback frame rate set to VFR kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYTCd2SXZ6ejfJY @ 1:58

[@zran3097]

Oh my man :') don't get an arri you won't like it...

[@ScottBell]

Hah no plans on that

[@matthewcooley4258]

canon r5

[@ScottBell]

Yeah, looking for something with a different firm factor. Excited about the newly announced canon c300mkiii!

[@matthewcooley4258]

@@ScottBell i have to research that one. i just heard about the 16stops of DR by recording double expose and syncing the image.

[@ScottBell]

@@matthewcooley4258 Yeah, pretty cool tech. 4k120 RAW internal, adaptable size depending on needs, AF up to 120fps, Canon colors, and overall reliability make it sound pretty killer.

[@matthewcooley4258]

@@ScottBell what about you mentioning the small form factor for gimbal work. I'm assuming you're looking at the crane 3s?

[@ScottBell]

@@matthewcooley4258 I have a Ronin-S which I've seen some ppl mount a C200 on. I know the C300 is a bit bigger but I'm curious how it might work. Otherwise, I'd probably be looking at a b-cam for gimbal work or a gimbal upgrade.

[@dontusedontuse8273]

I wish I never bought my e2c

[@ScottBell]

Thanks for watching. What was your experience with the e2c?

[@BeatsWithKev]

Damn, I own the E2C and love it. The 2k mode even has less of a crop. What's up with yours?

[@CBRAFILMS]

@@BeatsWithKev maybe the problem is people expecting a dlsr.. and this cameras have a higger learning/adpting point

[@omg-originalmotiongears186]

CHINA tech ??

[@zran3097]

dude I'm super confused I clicked on your channel and you are chinese haha